2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado would be higher. At 7,446 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado. (265 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 20 kg more than 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado. (518 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Oldsmobile Toronado | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | S | Toronado |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 7446 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 518 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 108 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 2115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 91 L |
